Just imagine getting ready to start your junior year of high school and being challenged to create a successful business with only a maximum of $1700.  Bridgeport High School student, Christina Guirguis recently had that opportunity, as she was the only Bridgeport representative to participate in the first annual Governor’s School of Entrepreneurship, held July 5-26 at Marshall University. 

 

Students from all over West Virginia were given the chance network with successful entrepreneurs, attend field trips, and hone their skills as they competed in a Shark Tank-like competition that lasted three weeks, culminating with the groups opening actual businesses. 

 

After brainstorming and learning about the different aspects of entrepreneurship, Guirguis’ group chose to pitch their idea in front of a group of potential investors. Their team decided to put America’s favorite side dish in the spotlight, creating a specialty French fry place.

 

“Our team was the only one who received the full amount available by the investors,” said Guirguis.  “They said they could see a lot of potential in our business idea and wanted to help make it a success.”

 

Ultimately, the team won second place in the overall contest, raising over $2000 in the one-day venture.  Guirguis was also the winner of the 2016 Outstanding Entrepreneur Award, being honored at the Governor’s Gala, where she was presented with a plaque.

 

“The process really encouraged me and showed me that I am capable of so much more than I thought,” she said.  “I met so many inspiring people and had the opportunity to be challenged in ways I never would have imagined.”

 

Throughout the Governor’s School of Entrepreneurship, students attended various business classes, including interactive sessions and simulations showing potential issues entrepreneurs may face.  97% of West Virginia businesses are classified as small businesses and the program was designed to retain the talents of young people in the state.

 

Students received six college credits for participating and were given access to local resources throughout the competition.  Among some of the basic life skills the teens learned were how to manage time, money, resources and people.  Participants also had some free time to go zip lining and explore Huntington, among other adventures. 

 

“I would definitely recommend this to anyone, even if they don’t know what they might want to do in the future.  It was one of the best experiences I have ever been through and I made friends all over the state while learning actual skills that will benefit me later in life,” Guirguis said.